BY DAKOTA TAIT
Police have released CCTV images in an appeal to the public for information, after an armed robbery in West Wallsend earlier this year.
About 11.20pm on Sunday 15 May 2022, a man wearing a mask and armed with a firearm and knife, entered a service station on Withers Street.
The man approached the counter and allegedly threatened an employee behind the counter, before demanding money and cigarettes.
The man fled the store on foot, before the 27-year-old male employee, who was uninjured, notified police.
Investigators have released CCTV images of a man who may be able to assist with inquiries.
The man depicted is described as being approximately 170 to 175cm tall, of medium to large build, wearing a black hooded jumper with a ‘Tommy Hilfiger’ motif on the front, black tracksuit pants, black shoes, wearing blue medical gloves and a Guy Fawkes mask.
Lake Macquarie Crime Manager Detective Chief Inspector Scott Parker says the incident was brazen and posed a significant danger to the employee as well as the community.
"While it’s fortunate no one was physically injured, the trauma inflicted on victims in incidents like this, especially when firearms are involved, can cause long-term damage," he said.
"There are people in the community who would know who this man is. Whether you are a friend or family member, we urge you to do the right thing and contact police."
Anyone with information in relation to this incident is urged to contact police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
